Eric Blake, a 2002 Central Connecticut graduate, returns to New Britain for his third season as assistant coach. Blake came back to CCSU in 2005 with a Master of Arts in health and physical education and a wealth of competitive running experience.

Blake earned his master’s degree from Adams State College, where he was a member of the school’s Division II cross country and track teams.

Following his graduation from Adams State, Blake was the head coach for the Plattsburgh State men’s and women’s cross country teams. He also was an assistant coach for the track and field squads. In addition to coaching, Blake spent time running in both marathons and USATF events. The 29-year-old had four top-10 finishes in USATF events, including a first place finish in the USATF Mountain Championships at Mt. Washington in 2006. He also qualified for the 2004 Olympic Trial Marathon held in Birmingham, Alabama. This past year the former Blue Devil placed 10th in the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon, third among American runners, while also finishing 12th at the Obudu Ranch International Mountain Race in Nigeria.

A four-year member of the cross country and track teams while at Central Connecticut, Blake graduated with a Bachelor of Science in education (mathematics).

Prior to attending Central Connecticut, the Lebanon, CT native was the 1996 state open cross country champion.

In addition to being a 2008 USA Track and Field member, Blake is affiliated with the Boston Athletic Association. He is also a USATF certified Level 1 and 2 Coach.